MOTEL Event Space Opens at Florence's Manifattura Tabacchi with Secular Cathedral Design

Architect Luca Baldini has designed MOTEL, a new event venue at Florence's Manifattura Tabacchi, describing its bare architecture as a 'secular cathedral.' The temporary space, located in building B3 within the regenerated former tobacco factory complex, offers over 3,000 square meters for public and private events, including indoor areas, gardens, and the historical Caveau archive. The design emphasizes open, adaptable spaces with reclaimed factory windows used for partitions. Artist Patrick Tuttofuoco created the sculpture 'Hercules' for the entrance, and upcoming programming includes a June installation by Gianni Pettena. Separately, photographer Zhang Chaoyin's exhibition 'Luci d'alta quota' will be presented at building B12 from March 26 to May 15, 2026.